What are Food Allergies?
Food allergies are immune system reactions to specific proteins found in certain foods. When individuals with food allergies consume or come into contact with allergenic foods, their immune system mistakenly identifies these proteins as harmful invaders and launches an immune response. This response can trigger a range of symptoms that can vary from mild, such as hives or digestive discomfort, to severe and life-threatening, like anaphylaxis.
Common food allergens include:
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Eggs
- Milk
- Shellfish
- Fish
- Soy
- Wheat
- Sesame
Food allergies can develop at any age, but they are most commonly diagnosed in childhood. Strict allergen avoidance and prompt medical intervention for severe reactions are crucial for managing food allergies, as there is currently no cure for this condition.
How Can Laguna Allergy Medical Boutique Help?
At our practice in Aliso Viejo, our board certified allergists provide:
What are Oral Food Challenges?
During this test, a small amount of the suspected allergenic food is gradually consumed by the patient, typically in increasing doses. Our board certified allergists will closely monitor the patient for any allergic reactions. Oral food challenges serve two main purposes: to confirm or rule out the presence of a food allergy and to assess the severity of the allergy.
What is Peanut Oral Immunotherapy?
Peanut oral immunotherapy (OIT) is a treatment approach that can benefit patients with peanut allergies. It involves the controlled and gradual introduction of tiny, measured amounts of peanut protein, usually starting with minuscule doses and increasing over time. This process aims to desensitize the patient’s immune system to peanuts, making it less reactive to allergenic proteins. Over time, patients can tolerate larger amounts of peanuts without experiencing allergic reactions.
What is Skin Prick Testing?
During this test, your Laguna Allergy provider will apply a tiny amount of allergenic food extract, such as peanut or milk, to your skin, usually on the forearm or back. If you are allergic to the specific food, you will typically develop a localized allergic reaction in the form of a small, itchy bump or hive within 15-20 minutes. Skin prick testing helps identify the specific foods responsible for allergic reactions, allowing us to pinpoint your allergenic triggers.
What is Blood Allergy Testing?
Blood allergy testing, specifically through the measurement of specific IgE antibodies, can be a valuable tool for patients with food allergies. It plays a pivotal role in accurately diagnosing and managing food allergies, ensuring that individuals can make informed choices about their diet to stay safe and healthy.
Schedule Care for Food Allergies in Aliso Viejo, CA
Laguna Allergy Medical Boutique is led by Drs. Gillian Bassirpour and Kristen Walters, board certified allergists and dedicated mothers. Their mission is to provide top-tier healthcare to children and adults. Along with our comprehensive services, our boutique also offers a retail experience, featuring childrens’ books about allergies and other products. To find out how Laguna Allergy can assist with food allergies, click the appointment button below or reach out to us at 949-287-4900.
